Aizawl, Apr 4: Three Myanmar nationals were arrested with several exotic wildlife species in Mizoram.
The apprehended individuals, identified as Thawngsuangmunh (26), Biakzapiang (26), and Jeecy Lalnunmawia (31), are all Myanmar nationals from Khawmawi.
The Assam Rifles, in collaboration with Mizoram Forest Department officials, conducted the rescue operation following a tip-off.
Acting on the information, security personnel intercepted an attempt to traffic exotic wildlife species and apprehended the three Myanmar nationals as they crossed into India from Myanmar, carrying concealed containers on Wednesday night.
During the search operation, the forest team seized and rescued three Patagonian Maras, 24 African Spurred Tortoises, and one Albino Burmese Python.
The estimated value of the seized wildlife is approximately Rs 1.31 crore.
The rescued wildlife species, along with the apprehended individuals, were handed over to the Forest Department in Champhai for further investigation and legal proceedings.
Myanmar’s Chin State is a hub for smuggling various contraband items, including drugs and exotic wildlife animals, through six Mizoram districts—Champhai, Siaha, Lawngtlai, Hnahthial, Saitual, and Serchhip.
Read: Two calls and a school in Meghalaya–Assam disputed area after 52 years
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